World Senior Citizens’ Day is observed globally on August 21.

Important Days

World Senior Citizens’ Day is observed globally on August 21 each year to recognize the invaluable contributions of older persons and raise awareness about the challenges they face. First proclaimed by U.S. President Ronald Reagan in 1988, it was later adopted internationally by the United Nations.


      - President Ronald Reagan issued Proclamation 5847 on August 19, 1988, establishing August 21 as National Senior Citizens Day in the USA. The day was later recognized by the UN General Assembly in December 1990 and marked globally from 1991.

      - The observance aims to highlight age-related issues such as declining health, elder abuse, and social exclusion. It emphasizes promoting the dignity of older citizens while celebrating their lifelong contributions to families, communities, and nations.

      - While World Senior Citizens’ Day (August 21) derives from U.S. origins and has international acknowledgment, the UN also observes the International Day of Older Persons on October 1, established by UN Resolution 45/106 in 1990.

Main Point :-   (i) According to the UN, the population of older persons is rapidly increasing worldwide. By 2050, the global count of senior citizens is projected to exceed 1.5 billion, with two-thirds residing in developing countries—highlighting urgent needs for inclusive policies.

      (ii) Communities observe the day through events like award ceremonies, social gatherings, local awareness drives, and health-care campaigns. Individuals also take opportunities to spend quality time with elders, volunteer at senior homes, and advocate for improved services and respect.


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